TORONTO – This year’s RBC Canadian Open is once again set to be the most sustainable Canadian Open to date. Each year we aim to push the environmental programming to be better and better. This year we have built off of a successful pilot program, and increased the number of Zero Waste Sorting zones.
“RBC is excited to again work with Golf Canada and our partners to host one of the most sustainable golf tournaments on the PGA tour and continue to improve our environmental programing year over year.” says Andrew Craig, Director Corporate Environmental Affairs, RBC.
“We are excited to support these new initiatives to ensure the environmental impacts of the RBC Canadian Open continue to decrease,” said Brent McLaughlin, tournament director for the RBC Canadian Open. “Glen Abbey is a great location to reinforce these initiatives, and the golf course itself has been certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary since 2004.”
Here are the 2016 RBC Canadian Open key environmental initiatives:
Hosting a carbon-neutral event
RBC and Golf Canada have taken responsibility for GHG emissions where possible through the following initiatives:
- The event will be bullfrogpowered with 100 per cent green natural gas and green electricity. Across Canada, Bullfrog Power’s green electricity comes exclusively from a blend of wind and low-impact hydro power sourced from new Canadian renewable energy facilities. Bullfrog’s green natural gas is a climate-friendly alternative to conventional, polluting natural gas, and is sourced from the Rive-Nord green natural gas facility in Quebec, a unique, ground-breaking methane-capture project.
- GHG emissions associated with the use of diesel generators and event vehicles will be neutralized through the purchase and retirement of high quality carbon offsets. The carbon offsets will be acquired through RBC’s carbon emissions trading group in RBC Capital Markets.
Reducing waste sent to landfill
The event’s goal is to divert waste from landfill using the following initiatives:
- Three zero waste sorting stations located in high traffic concession areas will improve waste sorting at the point of disposal and increase waste diversion.
- Visible and well-marked recycling and organics collection receptacles throughout the course will reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfill.
- For the sixth consecutive year, Event Water Solutions is providing free filtered water at water stations located across the grounds. In 2015, more than 57,000 bottles were filled at the water stations. That’s more than 114,0000 plastic bottles diverted from landfill. Collapsible water bottles will be available for purchase at the tournament with proceeds benefiting the official charity partner, Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada.
- Concession service provider Bingeman’s is reducing waste by using compostable or recyclable food packaging and condiments will be served in bulk where possible.
- Unused food will be donated to a local food bank
- Food items not suitable for donation will be separated for composting.
- Volunteers, including a large contingent from the Burloak Canoe Club, will ensure waste is properly sorted and that the golf course remains litter free.
Sustainable transportation options
Steps have been taken to reduce the environmental impacts of transportation and provide sustainable transportation options such as:
- Complimentary bicycle valet for ticket holders and tournament volunteers near the main gates.
- The event is accessible by public transportation with shuttle bus service from Bronte and Oakville GO Stations.
Sustainable golf course operations
Since 2004, Glen Abbey has been certified as an Audubon International golf course by Audubon International. Only five per cent of Canadian golf courses have this prestigious environmental designation. To earn this designation, golf courses are subjected to an audit and certification program covering six categories: Environmental Planning, Chemical Use Reduction & Safety, Water Conservation, Water Quality Management, Wildlife & Habitat Management, and Outreach & Education.